Mathematics Elementary School Outreach Programs

Math Catcher: Mathematics Through Aboriginal Storytelling

Math Catcher supports math education for elementary students through on-campus workshops for Aboriginal students in math and science and school visits to urban and rural schools around BC.

Math Catcher introduces mathematics and science to Aboriginal students through the use of First Nations imagery and storytelling. Match Catcher has produced animated films in several First Nations languages (Blackfoot, Cree, Squamish, Heiltsuk, Nisga’a, Sliammon, Halq’em ́eylem, Hul’q’umi’num’, and Huu-ay- aht) as well as bilingual picture books in Blackfoot/English, Cree/English, Squamish/English, Nisga’a/English, and Sliammon/English.

Math & Logic

Math & Logic is a 1.5 hour workshop for K-7 students that uses SET cards to help students develop skills in logic, visual perception and pattern recognition.

Combinatorics

Some mathematicians study combinations; the ways in which items can be put together or the order in which tasks can be done. Through activities that explore getting dressed for school and colored rubber bands, students get a taste of a very different area of math!

This workshop is in partnership with Science in Action and is designed for students from K - Grade 3. Class minimum is 15, maximum is 30.

Self-Driving Cars

How can computers tell a car how to drive? This hands-on workshop introduces key concepts in computer programming: sequence of operations, loops, and if/else statements. We will discuss the ethics of self-driving cars and other automated machines. Should the car be able to stop a person from speeding? Who is at fault if the car crashes - the driver, the programmer, the car company?

This workshop is in partnership with Science in Action and is designed for students from Grade 3-6. Class minimum is 15, maximum is 30.

Spaghetti Towers Design Challenge

The materials are simple, the directions are simpler, but success will require creativity, careful planning, steady hands, and teamwork. Who can make the tallest functional tower? The secret lies in geometry!

This workshop is in partnership with Science in Action and is designed for students from Grade 3-7. Class minimum is 15, maximum is 30.

3D Printing

What is 3D printing? What can it be used for? Learn how 3D printers work and how they are used in research and medicine. Students will learn how SFU uses 3D printing to make arm and leg casts as well as models for math, archeology and anatomy. Students will be able to touch and hold 3D printed pieces and will be given a 3D printed keepsake to take home.

This workshop is open to all age groups. Maximum 30 students per workshop.